If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food dessert that combines rich chocolate hazelnut spread with moist banana bread, this Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is a dream come true. Imagine warm slices of tender banana bread laced with ribbons of creamy Nutella that melt in your mouth with every bite. It’s the perfect blend of classic homemade banana bread and indulgent chocolatey goodness.
This recipe makes the ideal treat for family gatherings, an easy snack with coffee, or a sweet addition to brunch. With simple pantry ingredients and a swirl of everyone’s favorite hazelnut spread, this bread is both quick to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re looking for easy dessert ideas, kid-friendly snacks, or decadent breakfast recipes, this Nutella banana bread checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Nutella Swirl Banana Bread
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Easy to make: Comes together in one bowl with simple steps.
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Perfectly moist: Bananas and melted butter ensure soft, tender texture.
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Crowd-pleasing flavor: The combination of sweet banana bread and Nutella is irresistible.
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Family-friendly treat: Loved by kids and adults alike.
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Versatile: Works for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
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Beautiful presentation: The chocolate swirls look bakery-worthy.
Ingredient Breakdown
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Bananas: Use ripe, spotty bananas for natural sweetness and moist texture.
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Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps keep the bread tender.
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Granulated sugar: Balances the bananas’ sweetness and enhances flavor.
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Eggs: Bind the batter together and add structure.
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Vanilla extract: Boosts flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
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All-purpose flour: Creates the base of the loaf with the right crumb.
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Baking soda: Provides rise and keeps the bread light.
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Salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens flavors.
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Nutella (or hazelnut spread): Swirled in for creamy, chocolatey layers.
Pro Tips
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Use overripe bananas: The more brown spots, the sweeter and softer your bread will be.
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Warm the Nutella slightly: Microwave it for 10–15 seconds for easier swirling.
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Avoid overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent toughness.
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Line your pan with parchment: This makes removing the loaf easier and prevents sticking.
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Check early: Start testing for doneness at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
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Nut butters: Swap Nutella with peanut butter or almond butter for a different twist.
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Chocolate chips: Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips for extra richness.
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Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
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Marble loaf: Swirl in both Nutella and cream cheese for a bakery-style treat.
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Healthier version: Replace half the butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread shines on its own but pairs beautifully with:
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A hot cup of coffee or cappuccino for breakfast.
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Fresh fruit or berries for brunch.
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
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A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
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Make ahead: Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator before baking.
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Room temperature: Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps fresh up to 1 week when wrapped tightly.
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Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat in the microwave.
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Reheating tip: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to restore freshness.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Banana bread gained popularity in the 1930s when home bakers began finding creative ways to use overripe bananas during the Great Depression. Adding Nutella transforms this classic into a modern comfort food favorite, blending old-fashioned baking traditions with today’s love for hazelnut chocolate spreads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this bread without Nutella?
Yes! You can make classic banana bread by simply leaving out the Nutella swirl. It will still be moist and delicious.
How do I keep my banana bread from sinking in the middle?
Be sure to measure your flour correctly and don’t underbake. Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Bake in two 9×5 pans or one large Bundt pan, adjusting baking time as needed.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
Quick-ripen bananas by baking them unpeeled at 300°F for 15–20 minutes until soft and blackened. Let cool before mashing.
How do I know when my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the loaf is ready.
Nutella Swirl Banana Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and melted butter until well combined.
- Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of Nutella onto the batter, then use a knife to swirl it gently.
- Add the remaining batter on top and repeat the Nutella swirl process.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy your Nutella Swirl Banana Bread!
Notes
